After reading an article on education titled, “Educating the Unmotivated"(Ronald W. Luce), I began to think about our traditional teaching methods. Perhaps it is not so much what we teach, but rather how we teach it, and how the students perceive to learn something. I mean, Ben Stein gets a bad rap for “Buheler, Buheler, anyone, Buheler” as well he should…but to me rings so true. I mean when you are in front of a class, that is primarily what kids hear from us. That is why I think it important for kids to see me and my subject matter as “cool”. Now do I really care that my students think I’m cool? Of course not. But if they perceive me as someone that they can listen and relate to, they will actually soak up what you are saying, and not hear the withdrawn Mr. Stein. Speak to students on their level…do NOT be too in charge. They know you are the boss already and do not need to be reminded of it all the time.

Educators need to get students interested in what they are learning.

Essentially, what we are saying is that what we have done in the past has not worked. Not at the school I teach at, not in traditional public schools, and not across the board nationwide. There is not one solution to this problem, nor is there an easy answer. But if can make learning fun, empower our students, get away from traditional teaching methods, and avoid being the boring Mr. Ben Stein, I think we are well on our way of seeing an increase of student motivation, test scores, and an all around better learning environment.

Smile...today could be your last.

Wow...It's been a while...I have been so busy, which if I remember right was the point of my last entry (I hate the word blog).

Anyway, I just wanted to touch base on a couple of things.

I can't belive how big my son is getting...I love you Cooper Guild.

Holy Crap! I am working full time as a teacher, trying my best to be a father and husband, and running a restaurant. On top of that, just trying to get the basics done has been crazy. I am trying to build a walkway for the back patio, book bands for Sat. nights, and keep tabs on the rental properties. AARRGGG.

It can be frustrating, but if I want to retire at 45, it will all be worth it.

Anyway...I also wanted to get the picture of me and Matt posted. I had a rockin' good time at the show (got a little intoxicated-sorry Wendy), but had a blast. Made it to work a little late the next day. My ears rang all day...it was awesome. I got a chance to meet the Surfers and buy them a shot of whiskey. I also managed to get on stage and have Matt saw hello to my wife Wendy. All in all a great time. I only wish I could see them live more often. The more I listen to them, the better they get. The more records they make, the more depth their music has. Keep on rockin'.

Had a great 4th of July...Aunt Lou raced her homemade boat in Brady Lake. It was made of cardboard and duct-tape. Good times. I love Aunt Lou.

Went golfing for the first time in about 8 years yesterday with Scotty Bamic. I forgot how bad I am at golf, but how much I enjoyed hanging out with an old friend.

I need to get back to work now. I have much to do for the upcoming year.

Goal for the week: Find 10 minutes everyday this week to play the Guild.

...Smile today could be your last.